Exploration

Lynn students still studying abroad

Lynn’s Center for International Programs and Services helps students find programs that fit their financial needs

Published Mar. 26, 2009

In the midst of economically challenged times, education abroad remains important to Lynn University and its students. “Through study abroad we believe students can gain a greater understanding of the historical, social, economic, political and cultural components of the country in which they are studying,” said Sheila Sheppard, associate director of Lynn’s Center for International Programs and Services (CIPS). “Students can take the experiences and the skills gained overseas and utilize those skills in their careers. Research shows that employers value semester or longer study abroad experiences and internships.”

According to the Institute of International Education Open Doors Report 2008, Lynn’s study abroad program is ranked 6th within the top 40 masters institutions for the number of students it sends abroad each year. Lynn offers its students varied overseas experiences that range from a few weeks, to a semester or up to a full year. CIPS staff members not only encourage students to study abroad, but they are helping students find the right program to meet their academic and financial needs. “We are developing creative ways to generate assistance for students who feel that education abroad might not be feasible,” said Sheppard.

CIPS current initiatives include providing Lynn students and faculty (along with members of the local community and other high school/college students) with the International Student Identity Card (ISIC), an internationally recognized discount card providing savings on many venues for students and faculty. Additionally, CIPS now offers to take Lynn student, staff and faculty passport photos for a discounted fee. “As the proceeds grow,” said Sheppard, “the money will be used to assist Lynn students who would like to study abroad but may be experiencing financial difficulty.”

“The semester program enrollment for spring 2009 did decrease,” said Sheppard. “However, it is too soon to notate if declining enrollment will be an on-going trend for semester programs.” Institutional efforts to reduce the costs of Academic Programs Abroad (APA), short-term faculty-led programs, have already been put in place. During Lynn’s first January term, students traveled to Russia, Argentina, Jamaica, Colorado, New York, and various other locations on short-term, two-week or less, trips. “Student enrollment for the J-term was strong,” said Sheppard.